The day we chose to visit West Point was one of the few when every single cadet was allowed to go home--and so our visit there was definitely missing something. In addition, West Point also has an active duty Army Post on the grounds, so security here was much tighter than anything we encountered at Annapolis. You can only enter the property on a scheduled tour bus and you have to remain with the tour the entire visit. We were only allowed off the bus twice: once at the chapel and once by the dormitory so I don't have a lot to share, but I will start with the chapel:
The chapel is built of native granite and was dedicated in 1910.
The chapel is lined with American fags from various periods in history as well as US Army Regimental flags.
The main sanctuary stained glass window is inscribed with the motto of the academy, "Duty, Honor, Country." These side windows were donated over time by various classes.
The Cadet Chapel organ, begun in 1911 and enlarged by subsequent gifts, is now the largest church organ in the world. (With 23,236 pipes, there were organ pipes in very nook and cranny in the church).
This is the cadet dormitory, with the chapel in the background, and the parade grounds in front.
I am standing in front of the Battle Monument erected to honor the men of the American Army who died in battle, specifically the regular Army casualties of the North during the Civil War. It stands opposite the dormitory facing the Hudson River.
Trophy Point Amphitheater overlooking the Hudson. Band concerts as well as other events are held here.
A place for the cadets to find some peace.
The view back towards West Point heading north on the highway.
Next, we're off to see some of the mansions along the river (but we never got near the place where Chelsea Clinton got married).
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